Anandamide: The Happiness Molecule and Its Role in Our Body
Did You Know?
Anandamide, also known as a cannabinoid ligand and endocannabinoid neurotransmitter, was discovered in 1992 by a team led by Czech scientist Lumír Ondřej Hanuš and American chemist William Anthony Devane in the laboratory of Raphael Mechoulam at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. The name was derived from the Sanskrit word ananda, meaning bliss.
This neurotransmitter, often referred to as the molecule of life, plays a vital role in regulating pain, depression, happiness, memory, fertility, and appetite. Anandamide is found in cannabis—among other sources—which our ancestors consumed for centuries as a valuable source of omega-3, 6, and 9 fatty acids. Our bodies also produce it, but only when they are in a healthy state.
Herbarium of Medicinal Plants: The Most Comprehensive Herbal Encyclopedia
Did you know that the Herbarium of Medicinal Plants was authored by Jiří Janča and Josef A. Zentrich, two of the most respected herbalists in Central Europe? This renowned herbal encyclopedia defines each plant by its Latin botanical name, describes its family, and outlines its medicinal effects on both humans and animals. Furthermore, the herbs are listed in multiple languages: English, Slovak, German, Spanish, and French.
Consciousness and Health: What Science Says About the Power of Thought
Did you know that in his book Healing and Recovery, David R. Hawkins, M.D., Ph.D., presents research on human consciousness that aligns with the findings of leading scientists, physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and naturopaths? He explains that for centuries, traditional sciences were limited to the linear dimension—particularly to neural concepts of cause and effect—while the reality being studied is in fact nonlinear.
Chemical processes fall within the domain of predictable neural science (linear content), but healing is significantly supported by the invisible power of conscious intention (nonlinear interactions).
It was only after the discovery of Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle that science began to recognize the existence and function of consciousness as a crucial factor in the transition from potential to manifestation. (See Stapp’s book Mindful Universe for more on the relationship between quantum theory, consciousness, and intention.)
The mind exerts fundamental control over every molecule in the body—even down to the atomic level—so it becomes clear just how important it is to release negative energies, including harmful thoughts.
It is scientifically proven that a healthy environment has a profoundly positive effect on our mental and emotional well-being. Nature. Mother Earth. The planet. And what role does nature play in all of this? An absolutely essential one.
According to quantum science, Earth and the cosmos are composed of the same universal patterns—such as the fractal golden ratio—as humans are. We need nature because we are part of it, and its chemical and energetic processes exist within us as well.
Sources: Dr. David R. Hawkins — psychiatrist, member of the American Psychiatric Association, frequent guest on U.S. national television (The McNeil/Lehrer NewsHour, The Barbara Walters Show, The Today Show), author of numerous scientific and spiritual publications, books, CDs, DVDs, and lectures. Co-author, with Nobel laureate Linus Pauling, of Orthomolecular Psychiatry.
Václav Cílek: Order in the Backyard as the Key to Landscape Restoration
Dr. Václav Cílek, RNDr., explains that so-called natural gardens are becoming increasingly popular. Gardening is no longer just a hobby for the older generation but is now embraced by much younger people as well.
"Gardening is gaining popularity for two reasons: First, it gives you control over the food you eat. Second, it is becoming increasingly clear that a garden helps you cope with stress and reconnect with the rhythm of nature," says geologist Václav Cílek in an interview for Leonardo Plus.
Source: Czech Republic 2024
The proven healing power of nature is also explored by Václav Cílek and his team in the book Trees Know Me by Name: A Book on Natural and Healing Gardens. A special chapter is dedicated to gardens for kindergartens and elementary schools, and the question of why children need to play in the mud. Natural gardens are also the starting point for therapeutic gardens.
The book continues by outlining the principles of creating healing gardens, including their psychology and philosophy. Indeed, much of the world now recognizes gardens as transitional spaces between human habitation and the wild.
It is widely known that clinical studies and research have shown that psychiatric hospitals with gardens see up to 80% better and faster recovery rates compared to those without them.
Source: Trees Know Me by Name: A Book on Natural and Healing Gardens, Václav Cílek and team
